Screenings for heart-disease risk factors are also essential, and recent research suggests there’s widespread misunderstanding about when to begin these tests. In a survey of women, the majority said they believed that heart-health screenings should begin at age 41. That’s more than two decades too late! For both women and men, blood pressure and cholesterol screenings should begin at age 20, according to the American Heart Association (AHA). These tests are especially important because dangerous blood pressure and cholesterol levels often have no symptoms. You might feel invincible in your 20s and 30s, but don’t neglect these and other important screenings. See below for the latest recommendations from the AHA, and schedule an appointment with your doctor if you’re overdue.

  • Blood pressure: Starting at age 20, have your blood pressure checked at least once every two years or at each regular checkup.
  • Fasting lipid (cholesterol) profile: Starting at age 20, get your HDL, LDL and triglyceride levels checked every four to six years, more often if you have either a family history of heart disease and stroke, or a personal history of diabetes, hypertension or obesity.
  • Weight/body mass index: Starting at age 20, you should discuss your weight and body-mass index with your physician at your annual visit.
  • Waist circumference: Starting at age 20 if you have a BMI of 25 kg/m2 or higher; repeat as needed.
  • Blood glucose: Starting at age 45, have your blood glucose checked at least every three years.

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